Queen Cranes Stun Zambia in Ndola to Reach Final Round of FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers

Uganda’s dream of reaching the global stage received a major boost after the national U-20 women’s side delivered a disciplined and determined performance away from home to eliminate Zambia in the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers.

The Uganda U-20 Women’s National Team — popularly known as the Queen Cranes — secured a vital 1–0 victory over Zambia in the return leg of the third qualification round at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola. The result sealed a 2–1 aggregate triumph, keeping Uganda firmly in contention for a historic World Cup appearance.

Uganda entered the match knowing the stakes were high against a Zambian side determined to overturn the deficit on home soil. However, the visitors showed early intent and composure, quickly asserting themselves in a tense opening phase.

Their breakthrough came in just the 7th minute through forward Mary Kantono, whose well-taken finish stunned the home crowd and handed Uganda an early advantage. The goal proved decisive, forcing Zambia to chase the match while Uganda focused on maintaining structure and defensive discipline. Throughout the contest, the Queen Cranes displayed tactical maturity — balancing resilience at the back with intelligent transitions going forward. Zambia pushed aggressively in search of an equalizer, but Uganda’s defensive organization and game management ensured the narrow lead remained intact until the final whistle.

The victory underscored the team’s growth, confidence, and ability to perform under pressure away from home — qualities that will be crucial as the qualifiers intensify. After the match, head coach Sheryl Botes praised her players for their determination and execution, expressing satisfaction with both the result and the collective performance.

Botes noted that the team followed the tactical plan effectively and showed strong mental character in a hostile environment. She emphasized that such resilience is essential at this stage of continental competition and credited the players for maintaining focus throughout the encounter.

With the aggregate victory secured, Uganda now advances to the final qualification round, where they will face the winner of the tie between Ghana U-20 Women’s National Team and South Africa U-20 Women’s National Team.

The upcoming fixture represents the final hurdle before World Cup qualification, placing Uganda within touching distance of a landmark achievement for women’s football in the country.

Momentum, belief, and growing tactical discipline continue to define this Queen Cranes squad. Their performance in Ndola signals a team capable of competing with Africa’s elite, raising hopes among supporters that Uganda could soon celebrate a historic breakthrough on the international stage.